Challenge 22, an innovation award launched by the SC in Qatar in 2015, aims to promote a culture of innovation in the Middle East and attracts entrepreneurs, scientists and pioneers from across the Arab world. The award showcases ideas that can contribute towards the hosting and organization of major events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar, while building a sustainable, economically diverse future for the region.

The second cycle of Challenge 22, which runs from September 27th 2016 to May 11th 2017, aims to inspire innovative ideas that translate into practical event solutions under four key categories: sustainability, health & safety, the internet of things and tourism experience. Of the finalists selected for the final round, 8 were from Qatar, 5 from Jordan, 4 from Saudi Arabia, 3 from Egypt, 2 each from Oman, Tunisia and the UAE, and one from Kuwait and Morocco respectively. Read more about the finalists’ ideas here.

Finalists will travel to Doha to take part in the final event from the 20th to the 22nd of May where they will present their final proposals to the judging panel. During their stay, finalists will be given access to interactive trainings, technical workshops for finalists with app-based ideas, and workshops to assist in the preparation of their final presentation.

The individuals and teams who propose the most innovative ideas will win prizes of $15,000 and receive mentoring from leading scientists and researchers in the region. Winners with ideas that have the greatest potential will also have the opportunity to receive a grant of up to $100,000 to develop their idea.